AFSA attends Elizabeth Dole Foundation event paying tribute to military caregivers
By Shane S. Karp | Air Force Sergeants Association
May 20, 2015 -- Former Sen. Elizabeth Dole, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert A. McDonald, First Lady of the United States Michelle Obama and more joined together to honor the courage and sacrifices made by caregivers of wounded service members May 20 at the Elizabeth Dole Foundation’s Hidden Heroes Coalition Summit.
In addition to the above speakers, the event featured more than a dozen stories from real-life caregivers --- each with a unique situation and story detailing their struggles and tribulations as they provide care and support to loved ones who are permanently disabled or recovering from traumatic injuries.
The focal point of the event was clear: giving a voice to the brave family member whose selfless stories often go unnoticed and unheard.
"We want to show you that you're not alone in this journey — because here in America, caring for our wounded warriors cannot be a one-person assignment," said First Lady Obama. "It's a solemn obligation for our entire country to be there for you."
Secretary McDonald also promised relief for military caregivers in the form of better VA assistance when needed.
Currently, the VA has more than 900 1-800 numbers located in more than 200 call centers, McDonald said. McDonald said the goal is to soon have just one central phone number, manned by a human -- not a machine.
Other advancements announced at the event yesterday included the plan to put on training webinars to educate caregivers and clergy members on the five signs of mental distress, as well as educating community mental health providers on military culture, so if a caregiver or warrior seeks help outside the VA system, it is easier to find a provider who understands the unique stresses of military life, the First Lady said.
May 20, 2015 -- Former Sen. Elizabeth Dole, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert A. McDonald, First Lady of the United States Michelle Obama and more joined together to honor the courage and sacrifices made by caregivers of wounded service members May 20 at the Elizabeth Dole Foundation’s Hidden Heroes Coalition Summit.
In addition to the above speakers, the event featured more than a dozen stories from real-life caregivers --- each with a unique situation and story detailing their struggles and tribulations as they provide care and support to loved ones who are permanently disabled or recovering from traumatic injuries.
The focal point of the event was clear: giving a voice to the brave family member whose selfless stories often go unnoticed and unheard.
"We want to show you that you're not alone in this journey — because here in America, caring for our wounded warriors cannot be a one-person assignment," said First Lady Obama. "It's a solemn obligation for our entire country to be there for you."
Secretary McDonald also promised relief for military caregivers in the form of better VA assistance when needed.
Currently, the VA has more than 900 1-800 numbers located in more than 200 call centers, McDonald said. McDonald said the goal is to soon have just one central phone number, manned by a human -- not a machine.
Other advancements announced at the event yesterday included the plan to put on training webinars to educate caregivers and clergy members on the five signs of mental distress, as well as educating community mental health providers on military culture, so if a caregiver or warrior seeks help outside the VA system, it is easier to find a provider who understands the unique stresses of military life, the First Lady said.
